News

Linzi Stoppart, violinist

I saw a sea of flashbulbs, I was on my way to perform at the Natural History Museum. I entered the gates to be confronted by a wall of photographers. They called out, but I assumed they were talking to someone else. I checked behind me and, to my horror, I was all alone. I just froze. They were shouting: “Linzi, turn to the left. Over here! Give us a smile, Linzi.” I was totally bewildered by the frenzy. I felt such a klutz, and I struck some bizarre poses. It was like stage fright, yet I had no idea how to perform. Later, I realised that something had changed — I’d had recognition, and it made me proud. All my hard work had come to fruition. It’s still a bit weird, but now I see a flashbulb and I stop — I’d feel rude if I didn’t. I